Love is often thought of as a warm, fuzzy feeling—something we fall into, something fleeting and temporary. But when it comes to our relationship with our bodies and our movement practice, love is far more than just a feeling. It’s a verb—a consistent action that requires presence, patience, and intention.
So, what does it mean to truly "love" your body through movement? How can we shift our mindset from simply working out to engaging in a practice that nourishes us physically, mentally, and spiritually?
Let’s explore how LOVE can be an active, holistic force in your fitness routine.
Love is Active, Not Passive
When you think of love, think of it as a conscious act, a daily commitment. Love isn't just a feeling that comes and goes; it's a verb that requires action. This applies to our movement practice as well.
Instead of viewing exercise as a way to punish or “fix” your body, shift your mindset to seeing movement as a way to nurture, honor, and expand your body. Your workout routine can become a daily act of self-love—showing up for yourself, no matter how you feel. Whether you’re flowing through yoga, going for a run, lifting weights, or dancing, each movement becomes an opportunity to say, “I love my body, and I honor it with my actions.”
Love is Kind and Patient
In any healthy relationship, patience is key. You wouldn’t rush or force someone you love to change, and the same goes for your body. Your body deserves kindness, not criticism or judgment.
Love in movement is giving yourself the time and space to grow, to explore your limits, and to rest when needed. If you’ve ever felt frustrated with your progress or pushed yourself too hard, it’s time to revisit the idea of patience. True self-love means listening to your body—whether that means easing off the gas pedal or embracing a challenging new movement.
Love is Boundaried and Respectful
Real love has boundaries—it doesn’t overindulge or neglect. In our movement practice, this translates to respecting both our physical and mental limits. Love is recognizing that your body is not a machine to be overworked, nor should it be neglected.
A balanced approach to fitness means knowing when to push yourself and when to back off. It’s also about tuning into your body’s signals and honoring them. Sometimes love means saying, “I need rest today,” or “I’m feeling strong—I can challenge myself a little more.” Whether it’s stretching deeper or taking a slower day, the key is to listen to your needs without guilt or shame.
Love is Expansive
Love is not confined to narrow expectations. It’s expansive, overflowing with possibility. When it comes to movement, this means embracing variety and flexibility in your practice. Love invites you to explore new ways of moving and new types of exercises. It encourages you to step out of your comfort zone and try something different while also celebrating your body’s unique abilities.
Your movement practice doesn’t have to look a certain way. It doesn’t have to be about hitting personal bests or achieving a specific body type. Love means being open to experimenting with different routines, from high-intensity workouts to gentle stretching or mindfulness practices. It’s about feeling your power, no matter the shape, size, or type of movement you engage in.
Love is Present, Grounded in the Now
True love means showing up fully—no distractions, no judgment. When you’re moving your body, practice being fully present in each moment. This means letting go of thoughts about how you should look or comparing yourself to others. Focus on the here and now.
As you move, ask yourself: How does my body feel today? What does it need right now? Whether it’s a stretch, a lift, or a breath, love is about tuning into your body’s present state, not obsessing over the future or the past.
Love is Healing and Liberating
Movement isn’t just about building strength—it’s also about healing and freeing yourself from limitations. Love allows you to embrace the journey, not just the destination. Your body is always communicating with you, and your movement practice can be a tool for self-healing.
Whether you’re releasing tension from a stressful day, recovering from an injury, or simply letting go of negative thoughts, movement can be a profound form of self-care. This love is liberating because it frees you from rigid expectations and perfectionism. It allows you to experience your body not as an obstacle to overcome, but as a beautiful, dynamic vessel for your life.
Love is a Lifelong Partnership
Think of your relationship with your body as a lifelong commitment—just like any healthy partnership. There will be highs and lows, challenges and celebrations, but through it all, you remain steadfast.
Some days you’ll feel energized and powerful, while other days you may need to take it slow or rest. That’s all part of the journey. Just like a loving marriage, your movement practice evolves through different seasons of life. Sometimes it’s about pushing your limits, and other times it’s about honouring where you are.
Final Thoughts: Loving Your Body through Movement
Movement isn’t just about burning calories or achieving a specific look—it’s about the ongoing, loving relationship you cultivate with your body. By thinking of love as an action, we begin to see fitness as a holistic practice—one that nourishes, strengthens, and honors our body, mind, and spirit.
So, the next time you step onto your mat, hit the gym, or go for a walk, remember: you’re not just working out. You’re actively loving your body. You’re practicing kindness, patience, and self-compassion. You’re expanding your abilities and showing up for yourself, every single day.
LOVE is a verb. And your movement practice can be one of the most powerful expressions of that love.
with love,
Mo
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